What is a Wood Chipper Hire?
A wood chipper is a machine that reduces wood and branches into small chips. It’s typically used for recycling fallen trees or trimming, turning them into mulch, wood chips, or simply easier-to-manage debris.
Why Rent a Wood Chipper?
Renting a wood chipper is a practical solution for those who only need one temporarily. Purchasing a wood chipper can be expensive, and many people won’t need it regularly enough to justify the investment. Renting gives you access to high-quality equipment at a fraction of the cost.
Types of Wood Chippers
There are different types of wood chippers available for hire, each suitable for different jobs. Let’s explore the most common ones:
Electric Wood Chippers
Electric wood chippers are smaller and more portable. They’re best for small projects, like trimming a few bushes or branches. These are quieter and eco-friendly but may not handle large or tough wood as effectively.
Gas-Powered Wood Chippers
For larger, tougher jobs, gas-powered wood chippers are ideal. These machines can handle larger branches and are much more powerful than their electric counterparts. However, they are noisier and require more maintenance.
Drum Chippers
Drum chippers are industrial-grade machines designed for heavy-duty tasks. They use a rotating drum to chip wood and are perfect for large projects involving thick branches or trees.
Disc Chippers
Disc chippers are another heavy-duty option, using a large steel disc to cut wood into chips. They’re often used by professionals for large-scale projects or commercial landscaping.
Benefits of Hiring a Wood Chipper
Cost-Effective: Renting saves you the upfront cost of purchasing.
Access to Professional Equipment: You can hire high-end machines that would be too expensive to buy.
No Maintenance Worries: The rental company takes care of maintenance.
Flexible for Different Jobs: You can choose the type of chipper that’s best suited to your current project.
When to Consider Wood Chipper Hire
You might want to rent a wood chipper if:
You’re doing a seasonal yard clean-up.
You’ve just pruned trees or shrubs.
You’ve had a storm that left fallen branches.
You’re landscaping your property.
How to Choose the Right Wood Chipper
Selecting the right wood chipper for hire depends on several factors.
Size of the Project
The bigger the project, the more powerful a chipper you’ll need. Small electric chippers may work for light pruning, but for tree removal, you’ll want something heavy-duty.
Type of Wood Being Chipped
Softwoods like pine and fir are easier to chip than hardwoods like oak. Consider the type of wood you’ll be working with when choosing a chipper.
Power Source
Electric models are great for light work around the house, while gas-powered models are better for larger jobs or when you’re far from a power source.
Chipper Capacity
This refers to the maximum branch size the chipper can handle. Make sure the model you rent can deal with the size of branches you’re dealing with.
Steps to Renting a Wood Chipper
Research Local Rental Companies
Start by researching local companies that offer wood chipper hire. Look for reviews and ratings to ensure they provide reliable service.
Get a Quote
Contact the rental companies to get quotes based on the type of wood chipper you need and the length of time you’ll be renting it.
Understand Rental Terms
Make sure you understand the terms of the rental, including costs, maintenance, and what happens in case of damage.
Pick-Up and Drop-Off Process
Clarify whether the company will deliver the wood chipper or if you need to pick it up. Also, check the drop-off process to avoid any late fees.
Cost of Wood Chipper Hire
The cost of renting a wood chipper can vary depending on factors like the type of machine, rental duration, and your location. Generally, expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $400 per day.
Safety Tips for Using a Wood Chipper
Using a wood chipper can be dangerous if you’re not careful. Here are some safety tips:
Wear Protective Gear
Always wear safety goggles, gloves, ear protection, and sturdy boots when using a chipper.
Follow Instructions
Read the manual and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to avoid accidents.
Keep the Area Clear
Ensure that no one stands close to the chipper while it’s in operation to prevent injury.
Proper Disposal of Chipped Material
Have a plan for how you’ll dispose of or use the chipped material, whether it’s for mulch or waste removal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overloading the machine with too much wood at once.
Feeding inappropriate materials like rocks or wet wood.
Not checking the fuel or power levels regularly.
Maintaining a Wood Chipper During Hire
Make sure to keep the chipper clean and follow basic maintenance, like checking oil and fuel levels, to avoid any issues during use.
Alternatives to Wood Chipper Hire
If you only have a small amount of debris, consider using a shredder or mulcher. For larger jobs, you might want to hire a professional tree service instead.
Conclusion
Wood chipper hire is a convenient and cost-effective way to handle yard debris and clean-up tasks. Whether you’re tackling a large landscaping project or just need to manage some fallen branches, renting the right wood chipper can save you time and effort. Make sure to follow safety guidelines and choose the best chipper for your specific needs.